In the picturesque setting of Claverack, New York, the historical Ludlow Homestead stands as a testament to architectural evolution, merging the grandiosity of its past with the comfort sought by its current owners, Peter Spears and Brian Swardstrom. This 228-year-old house, built in 1786, is not just a dwelling but a custodian of history. The couple, through thoughtful restoration and design, has crafted a space that is both distinguished and inviting, a remarkable transformation from its previous dilapidated state.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Peter Spears and Brian Swardstrom
Location: Claverack, New York
Furniture: John Derian Armchairs and Regional Antiques
Interior Design: Elektra Buhalis Mural and Custom Designs
Historical Influence: Rufus Porter Style Murals
Upon acquiring the Ludlow Homestead in 2009, Spears and Swardstrom were drawn to its historical significance and the potential to create a home that wasn’t just an echo of the past. Spears, with a background in Colonial American history, and Swardstrom, a talent agent, embarked on a mission to restore the house’s integrity without turning it into a museum. Their vision was clear: to achieve a balance between preservation and livability, ensuring the home’s longevity while remaining a congenial space.
The restoration journey was fraught with challenges typical of historic homes. One major obstacle was rectifying the alterations from the house’s stint as an antiques shop, which had compromised its structural elements. This included the painstaking process of redesigning a banister with historical accuracy using 3D imaging. They also faced the daunting task of addressing a split main beam in the dining room, a remnant of careless renovations, requiring engineering precision to restore without further damage.
Decorating the restored homestead was a venture into regional authenticity and playful elegance. Spears and Swardstrom were meticulous in their selection of furnishings, opting for pieces that resonated with the home’s New York roots, distinguishing them from styles associated with Boston or Philadelphia. They infused the interiors with character, such as the “Grand Tour” themed parlor showcasing items reminiscent of aristocratic travels. The dining room was brought to life with murals in the style of Rufus Porter, maintaining continuity with the historic aesthetic.
The couple’s design approach not only complemented the home’s Georgian architecture but also embraced the spaciousness of its interiors. They navigated the challenge of filling expansive rooms, gradually layering furnishings until the spaces resonated with warmth and character. Their pursuit of appropriate decor was both a passion and an opportunity, benefiting from the current market’s undervaluation of “brown furniture,” allowing them to acquire high-quality, historically informed pieces.
Ultimately, living in this house reflected the fulfillment of an unrealized dream for Spears and Swardstrom. They viewed their stewardship of the Ludlow Homestead as part of a larger narrative, one where their contributions would allow the house to endure and thrive for future generations. Their journey, driven by an appreciation for history and a desire to inhabit a house with such an illustrious pedigree, speaks to a broader vision of home as a living, breathing entity that evolves with time.
